Brewing Guide for New Zealand-Style Pilsner, Following Pagan Brewing's Technique
In the world of homebrewing, Cheyne Harvey has made a name for himself with his impressive creations, particularly his New Zealand Pilsner. This easy-drinking hoppy lager has become a favourite among beer enthusiasts, showcasing the unique flavours of New Zealand hops.
Brewed with a grain bill of 75% Pilsner malt and 25% Wheat malt, the beer is light-bodied, golden in colour, and packed with plenty of carbonation. It offers a smooth, very drinkable profile, often regarded as a perfect summer cooler. The aroma is reminiscent of light sweet bready malt and fresh hay, with subtle citrus and grapefruit notes from the hops such as Nectaron, Motueka, Pacific Jade, and Nelson.
The taste is characteristically fresh bread with a touch of corn sweetness, complemented by a noticeable but balanced dose of herbal or citrus American-style hops. This results in a clean finish that is both crisp and flavourful without being aggressive.
Cheyne Harvey, a member of the Arizona Society of Homebrewers (ASH), has a penchant for British brewing styles, but his New Zealand Pilsner stands out as a testament to his versatility. He has competed in local and national homebrewing competitions, even winning awards in England and Scotland.
Pilsner beers, named after their birthplace, Plzeň in the Czech Republic, originated in the mid-19th century. The first Pilsner was brewed by a Bavarian brewer named Josef Groll in 1842. Since then, the style has evolved, with American Pilsners featuring a heavier hop load, contributing to a more pronounced hop flavour and bitterness while maintaining crispness and drinkability.
The New Zealand Pilsner has an original gravity (OG) of 1.052, final gravity (FG) of 1.010, IBU of 39, ABV of 5.5%, and an efficiency of 71%. The fermentation process takes 18 days, with the temperature varying from 50°F to 35°F.
Pilsner beers are known for their pairing versatility, complementing seafood, cheeses, meats, and desserts. So, whether you're planning a summer barbecue or a cosy dinner, Cheyne Harvey's New Zealand Pilsner is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
This craft beer, created by Cheyne Harvey, seamlessly blends into a unique food-and-drink lifestyle, pairing well with various dishes for both summer barbecues and cosy dinners. His New Zealand Pilsner, characterized by its sophisticated hop profile and crisp finish, showcases the intersection of technology and tradition, embodying the modern brewing methods that Cheyne Harvey employs in creating his beer.
